Compounds for treatment of metabolic syndrome

ABSTRACT

Present invention refers to new compounds of formula I or II, its synthesis and its use in the treatment of metabolic syndrome, particularly for the treatment of type I or type II diabetes and/or metabolic syndrome or metabolic disease or metabolic disorders.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention refers to new β-carbolinic compounds and its usefor the treatment of metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome, typeI and II diabetes.

INVENTION BACKGROUND

β-carbolinics compounds comprises a class of indol alkaloids, naturaland synthetic, that present a wide range of important biological andpharmacological properties, such as antimicrobial and antiviralactivities, action on metabolism and as powerful antitumorigenic agents(1, 2). Several researches have been developed for obtainingβ-carbolinic alkaloid derivatives, with different replacements in 1, 3and 9 positions of the β-carbolinic skeleton. Thus, present inventionrelates to the synthesis of new β-carbolinics derivatives useful for thetreatment of metabolic syndrome and, particularly to the treatment ofdiabetes, which show improved therapeutically activity in comparisonwith similar compounds existing in the prior art, even at lower doses.The metabolic syndrome represents a collection of factors, such ashypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia and diabetes (3), among others,associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Metabolicsyndrome is becoming increasingly common, largely as a result of theincrease in the prevalence of obesity (4). Although it is generallyagreed that first-line clinical intervention for the metabolic syndromeis lifestyle change, this is insufficient to normalize the risk factorsin many patients, and so residual risk could be high enough to justifydrug therapy. There is growing interest in therapeutic strategies thatmight target multiple risk factors more effectively, thereby minimizingproblems with polypharmacy (3, 4).

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises the compounds of general formula I and anypharmaceutically, cosmetically or food grade acceptable salt thereof:

wherein, independently,R₁ can selected from: linear or cycled mono or dialkylamines;aminoalkylalcohols or aminoalkylethers;R₂ can be selected from: benzene or heterocycle rings;R₃ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straightor branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; or benzyl group;R₄ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straightor branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; hydroxy or alkoxy radicals; orhalogen.

Preferred compounds according to general formula I are those that,independently,

R₁ when being a linear alkylamine is selected from: NH—(CH₂)_(n)—NH₂;NH—(CH₂)_(n)—R₆, being n a value between 0 and 4; NH—N═CH-phenyl-R₇;and R₁ when being a cycled amine is selected from:

R₁ when being an aminoalkylalcohol group is HNCH₂CH₂OH; and when beingan aminoalkylether group is HNCH₂CH₂OCH₃

R₂, when being a benzene substituted ring is selected from:

and when being a heterocycle ring is

R₃ when being a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight alkyl of from1 to 5 carbons, is methyl;R₄ when being a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight alkyl of from1 to 5 carbons, is methyl; R₄ when being an alkoxy radical is a radicalmethoxy;and R₄ when being a halogen is fluorine;R₅ can be selected from: H; alkoxy; halogen; hydroxy; or halogen-alkyl;R₆ can be selected from: an alkyl, hydroxy or alkoxy moiety;R₇ can be selected from: H or NO₂;R₈ can be selected from: H; hydroxy; alkoxy;

Preferred compounds are those wherein, R₅ can be selected from: methoxy;chlorine, OH or trifluormethyl, preferably, when R₅ is H, R₈ is OH andwhen R₅ is OH, R₈ is OCH₃.

Preferred compounds are those wherein, wherein R₆ is selected from: OH,ethyl or methoxy.

Additionally preferred compounds are the ones having formula II or III

wherein, independently,R₁ can selected from: OH, p-OCH₃, NH—(CH₂)_(n)—NH₂ being n a valuebetween 0 and 3;

or NH—N═CH-phenyl-R₇;

R₅ can be selected from: OCH₃ or H;R₇ can be selected from: H or p-NO₂

More particularly, preferred compounds are those wherein, when R₁ is agroup OH, R₅ is selected from H or p-OCH₃.

Still preferred compounds are those having a formula II selected fromformula 1a wherein R₁ is a group OH and R₅ is p-OCH₃; or from formula1b, wherein R₁ is a group OH and R₅ is H.

Also, preferred compounds are those wherein, when R₁ is a group OCH₃, R₅is selected from H or p-OCH₃.

Preferred compounds according to present invention are those having aformula II selected from: formula 2a, wherein R₁ is a group OCH₃ and R₅is p-OCH₃; from formula 2b, wherein R₁ is a group OCH₃ and R₅ is H; orhaving a formula III selected from formula 3a, wherein R₁ is a groupOCH₃ and R₅ is p-OCH₃ or from formula 3b, wherein R₁ is a group OCH₃ andR₅ is H.

Also, preferred compounds are those wherein, when R₁ is a groupNH—(CH₂)_(n)—NH₂, being the value of n=2 or 3, R₅ is p-OCH₃.

Preferred compounds according to present invention are those having aformula III selected from formula 4a, wherein R₁ is NH(CH₂)₂NH₂ and R₅is p-OCH₃; or from formula 5a, wherein R₁ is NH(CH₂)₃NH₂ and R₅ isp-OCH₃.

More preferred compounds according to the present invention are the oneshaving formula III, wherein, when R₁ is a group NH—(CH₂)_(n)—NH₂, beingthe value of n=0, R₅ is selected from H or p-OCH₃.

Compounds also comprises in the present invention are those having aformula III selected from formula 6a, wherein R₁ is NHNH₂ and R₅ isp-OCH₃; or from formula 6b, wherein R₁ is NHNH₂ and R₅ is H.

More particularly, preferred compounds are those wherein, in formulaIII, when being R₁ a group NH—N═CH-phenyl, R₅ is p-OCH₃ and when beingR₁ a group NH—N═CH— phenyl substituted by a group p-NO₂, R₅ is H.

Compounds also included in the scope of the present invention are theones having a formula III selected from formula 7a, wherein R₁ is agroup NH—N═CH-phenyl and R₅ is p-OCH₃; or from formula 7b, wherein R₁ isa group NH—N═CH-phenyl-p-NO₂ and R₅ is H.

Still most preferred compounds according to the present invention areselected among compounds: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a, 17b, 17c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d,21e, 21f, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f, 26a or 26b, as shown in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Compound Structure Name IFC-110248S (ANIS-NH2 or 4a)

N(-ethylamine)-1- benzosubstituted-β- carboline-3-carboxamideIFC-1102-57S (5a)

N(-propylamine)-1- benzosubstituted-β- carboline-3-carboxamidePGP-11048SR1 (ANIS-BZ or 7a)

3-(carbohydrazyl-N′- phenylsubstitute)-1- benzosubstitute-β-carbolinic-3- carbohydrazide JHG-1117-26 (23b)

N-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)- 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride JHG-1117-28 (23c)

[1-(4-methoxyphenyl)- 9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indol-3-yl]-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl) methanone hydrochloride JHG-1117-29 (26a)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(4- methoxyphenyl)-9-methyl- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride JHG-1102-79 (21a)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(4- pyridyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b] indole-3-carboxamidehydrochloride JHG-1117-24 (23a)

[1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indol-3-yl]-4-morpholinyl-Methanone Hydrochloride JHG-1117-27S2 (23e)

N-(4-aminobutyl)-1-(4- methoxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride JHG-1117-41 (23d)

N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-(4- methoxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride JHG-1117-43 (26b)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-9-benzyl- 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)pyrido [3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1102-92 (21b)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(4- chlorophenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide IFC-1102-93 (21c)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(4- hydroxy-3-methoxy- phenyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1102-96 (21e)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-[4- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3- carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1102-94 (21d)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(4- hydroxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1201-04 (17a)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-6-methyl- 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3- carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1201-07 (17c)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-6- methoxy-1-(4- methoxyphenyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3- carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1201-05 (17b)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-7-fluoro- 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3- carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1201-06 (21f)

N-(2-aminoethyl)-1-(3- hydroxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride IFC-1201-09 (23f)

N-(2-methoxyethyl)-1-(4- methoxyphenyl)-9H- pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride

Present invention also covers all intermediate compounds in thesynthesis of compounds of previously described compounds. Particularly,the invention covers intermediate compounds selected from: 1a, 1b, 2a,2b, 3a, 3b, 6a, 6b, 7b, 8, 9, 13, 14a, 14b, 14c, 15a, 15b, 15c, 16a,16b, 16c, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 18e, 18f, 19a, 19b, 19c, 19d, 19e, 19f,20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20f, 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 24a, 24b,25a, or 25b.

The invention includes pharmaceutical, cosmetic, functional foodadditive or nutraceutical compositions comprising at least any of thepreviously mentioned compounds represented by general formulas I, II andIII, and their pharmaceutically, cosmetically or food grade, acceptableor allowable, salts and combinations thereof, optionally with any inertingredient, carrier, excipient or alike.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III as previously disclosed or any pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising the same, for use as medicament, or for use formanufacturing a medicament.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III, as previously disclosed, or pharmaceuticalcompositions comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof metabolic syndrome, metabolic disease or metabolic disorders, or foruse in manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofmetabolic syndrome, metabolic disease or metabolic disorders.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or pharmaceutical compositions comprising thesame, are particularly suitable for use in the treatment or preventionof metabolic syndrome, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for thetreatment or prevention of metabolic syndrome.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III, as previously disclosed, or pharmaceuticalcompositions comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof diabetes, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for the treatmentor prevention of diabetes.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or pharmaceutical compositions comprising thesame, are particularly suitable for use in the treatment or preventionof diabetes, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for the treatmentor prevention of diabetes.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III, as previously disclosed, for any pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof hypertension, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for thetreatment or prevention of hypertension.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any pharmaceutical composition comprising thesame, are particularly suitable for use in the treatment or preventionof hypertension, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for thetreatment or prevention of hypertension. More preferably, compounds 4a,5a and 7a or any pharmaceutical composition comprising the same, areselected for use in the treatment or prevention of hypertension, or foruse in manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofhypertension.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III, as previously disclosed, or any pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof hyperlipidemia, assessed mainly as hypercholesterolemia, or for usein manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofhyperlipidemia, in general, and particularly for treatment or preventionof hypercholesterolemia.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any pharmaceutical composition comprising thesame, for use in the treatment or prevention of hyperlipidemia, assessedmainly as hypercholesterolemia, or for use in manufacturing a medicamentfor the treatment or prevention of hyperlipidemia, in general, andparticularly for treatment or prevention of hypercholesterolemia. Morepreferably, compounds 4a, 5a and 7a or any pharmaceutical compositioncomprising the same, are selected for use in the treatment or preventionof hyperlipidemia, assessed mainly as hypercholesterolemia, or for usein manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofhyperlipidemia, in general, and particularly for treatment or preventionof hypercholesterolemia.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III, as previously disclosed, or any pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof hyperlipidemia, assessed mainly as hypertriglyceridemia, or for usein manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofhyperlipidemia, in general, and particularly for treatment or preventionof hypertriglyceridemia.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any pharmaceutical composition comprising thesame, are particularly suitable for use in the treatment or preventionof hyperlipidemia, assessed mainly as hypertriglyceridemia, or for usein manufacturing a medicament for the treatment or prevention ofhyperlipidemia, in general, and particularly for treatment or preventionof hypertriglyceridemia. More preferably, compound 4a is selected foruse in the treatment or prevention of hyperlipidemia, assessed mainly ashypertriglyceridemia, or for use in manufacturing a medicament for thetreatment or prevention of hyperlipidemia, in general, and particularlyfor treatment or prevention of hypertriglyceridemia.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III as previously disclosed, or any pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising the same, for use in the treatment or preventionof obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturing a medicament forthe treatment or prevention of obesity or overweight.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any pharmaceutical composition comprising thesame, they all are particularly suitable for use in the treatment orprevention of obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturing amedicament for the treatment or prevention of obesity or overweight.More preferably, compound 5a or any pharmaceutical compositioncomprising the same, it is selected for use in the treatment orprevention of obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturing amedicament for the treatment or prevention of obesity or overweight.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III as previously disclosed, or any cosmeticcomposition comprising the same, for use as cosmetic particularly forreducing obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturing a cosmeticparticularly for reducing obesity or overweight.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any cosmetic composition comprising the same,they are particularly suitable for use as cosmetic particularly forreducing obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturing a cosmeticparticularly for reducing obesity or overweight. More preferably,compound 5a or any cosmetic composition comprising the same, it isselected for use as cosmetic particularly for reducing obesity oroverweight, or for use in manufacturing a cosmetic particularly forreducing obesity or overweight.

The invention also comprises any of the compounds covered by generalformula I, II or III as previously disclosed, or any functional foodadditive or nutraceutical composition comprising the same, for use asfood functional additive or nutraceutic particularly for preventing orfor reducing the symptoms related to: diabetes, elevated glucose bloodlevels, hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol levels, elevated bloodtriglycerides levels, obesity or overweight, or for use in manufacturinga food functional additive or nutraceutic particularly for preventing orfor reducing the symptoms related to: diabetes, elevated glucose bloodlevels, hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol levels, elevated bloodtriglycerides levels, obesity or overweight.

Preferably, the invention also comprises compounds named as: 4a, 5a, 7a,21a, 21b, 21e, 23a, 23b, 23d, 23e, 23f or 26b, taken alone or incombinations thereof, or any functional food additive or nutraceuticalcomposition comprising the same, they are particularly suitable for useas food functional additive or nutraceutic particularly for preventingor for reducing the symptoms related to: diabetes, elevated glucoseblood levels, hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol levels, elevatedblood triglycerides levels, obesity or overweight, or for use inmanufacturing a food functional additive or nutraceutic particularly forpreventing or for reducing the symptoms related to: diabetes, elevatedglucose blood levels, hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol levels,elevated blood triglycerides levels, obesity or overweight.

The invention also discloses processes for producing the differentcompounds represented by formula I, II or III.

Particularly, it has been disclosed, a process of synthesis of acompound of formula I and any pharmaceutically, cosmetically orfoodstuff acceptable salt thereof:

wherein, independently,R₁ can selected from: linear or cycled mono or dialkylamines;aminoalkylalcohols or aminoalkylethers;R₂ can be selected from: benzene or heterocycle rings;R₃ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straightor branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; or benzyl group;R₄ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straightor branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; hydroxy or alkoxy radicals; orhalogen, which comprises:

-   -   i. condensation reaction of L-tryptophan and an aldehyde        selected from anisaldehide (a) or benzaldehide (b), obtaining        compounds 1a or 1b, respectively;    -   ii. diluting compounds 1a or 1b, respectively, in an alcohol,        and adding to the corresponding solutions an acid; after        evaporation of the alcohol the resulting products were        neutralized with a base; then the organic phase was extracted        with an organic solvent and after drying and solvent removal,        compounds 2a or 2b were obtained;    -   iii. compounds 2a or 2b were dissolved in an organic solvent and        an acid was added until a precipitate was obtained; the        precipitate was filtered and washed with an ether, thus        obtaining compounds 3a or 3b, respectively    -   iv. compound 3a is reacted either with ethylenediamine or        propylenediamine, obtaining, respectively, compounds 4a or 5a;        -   alternatively, compounds 3a or 3b are reacted, in an alcohol            solution, with a hydrazine until a precipitate is formed;            the precipitate is filtered and washed with an alcohol and            compounds 6a and 6b are respectively;    -   v. to a solution of compounds 6a or 6b in water, an acid is        added and, after solubilization, each respective aldehyde in        alcohol solution, benzaldehide for compound 6a and        p-nitrobenzaldehide for compound 6b, is added;        -   after base neutralization a precipitate is formed which is            filtered and recrystallized with an alcohol, hence            obtaining, respectively compounds 7a and 7b.

An embodiment of the previous process is that wherein step iv) isreplaced, alternatively, as follows:

-   -   iv′ compound 3a is dissolved in 1,3-diaminepropane and the        excess of diamine was removed; the solid formed was triturated        with acetone and then filtered for obtaining compound 5a;

Another embodiment of the process disclosed hereto is that wherein stepv) is replaced, alternatively, as follows:

-   -   v′ an alcohol suspension of compound 6a is heated and then        benzaldehyde is added also in alcohol solution until complete        solubilization; the crude was concentrated until obtaining a        solid which is recrystallized with an alcohol, obtaining        compound 7a.

As additional process step for the above previous preferred embodimentsfor the compounds' production processes is that wherein any compoundobtained selected among: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 5a, 6a, 6b, 7a or 7b, isfurther reacted with an acid in order to form the corresponding salt,preferably, wherein the acid is HCl and the salt formed is thecorresponding clorhidrate.

The inventions also disclose the different processes for preparation ofeach one of the claimed compounds.

Compound Synthesis:

For the purposes of the present invention, wavy bond indicates that thecorresponding substituents can be in axial or equatorial.

E1: Variation in the Domain 1 (R₁)

The variations in the Domain 1 are achieved by reaction with differentamines in the last step. The synthesis is represented in the Scheme VI:

TABLE 2 Variations in Domain 1 (R₁) Com- pound R₁ R₂ R₃ R₄ 23a (JHG-1117-24)

H H 4-Morpholinyl 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 23b (JHG- 1117-26) HNCH₂CH₂N(CH₃)₂N-(2- dimethylaminoethyl)

H H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 23c (JHG- 1117-28)

H H 4-methylpiperazin-1-yl 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 23d (JHG- 1117- 41)HNCH₂CH₂OH N-2-hydroxyethyl

H H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 23e (JHG- 1117- 27S2) HN—(CH₂)₄—NH₂N-(4-aminobutyl)

H H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 23f (IFC- 1201-09) HNCH₂CH₂OCH₃N-(2-methoxyethyl)

H H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)

E2: Variation in the Domain 2 (R₂)

The reaction between L-tripthophan methyl ester and different aldehydesleads to compounds with different R₂. The synthesis is represented inthe Scheme VII:

TABLE 3 Variations in Domain 2 (R₂) Compound R₁ R₂ R₃ R₄ 21a (IFC-1102-79) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-(4-pyridyl) 21b (IFC- 1102-92) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-(4-chlorophenyl) 21c (IFC- 1102-93) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) 21d (IFC- 1102-94) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl) 21e (IFC- 1102-96) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) 21f (IFC- 1201-06) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂N-(2-aminoethyl)

H H 1-(3-hydroxyphenyl)

E3: Variation in the Domain 3 (R₃)

The variations in the Domain 3 are achieved following the syntheticmethod indicated in the Scheme VIII:

TABLE 4 Variations in Domain 3 (R₃) Compound R₁ R₂ R₃ R₄ 26a (JHG-1117-29) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

CH₃ methyl H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 26b (JHG- 1117-43) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂N-(2-aminoethyl)

CH₂Ph benzyl H 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) CH₂Ph: Benzyl group

E4. Variation in the Domain 4 (R₄)

To obtain compounds with different R₄ is necessary to use severaltriptophans as starting materials. The synthesis is represented in theScheme IX:

TABLE 5 Variations in Domain 4 (R₄) Compound R₁ R₂ R₃ R₄ 17a (IFC-1201-04) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂ N-(2-aminoethyl)

H CH₃ methyl 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 17b (IFC- 1201-05) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂N-(2-aminoethyl)

H F fluoro 1-(4-methoxyphenyl) 17c (IFC- 1201-07) HNCH₂CH₂NH₂N-(2-aminoethyl)

H OCH₃ methoxy 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)

FIGURES DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1: Hypoglycemic effect of3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ), just 1 (A) and 3 (B) days after beingadministered orally to experimental animals at 5 mg/kg dose compared tothe increase of glycemia induced by the glucose overload in normal rats(control) and the glycemia reduction achieved with metformin (MET). Eachbar represents the mean±SEM of 6 animals. * P<0.05, ** P<0.01, comparedwith vehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 2: Hypoglycemic effect after 3 days, of3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstitute)-1-benzosubstitute-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ) at 0.5, 1 and 5 mg/kg doses compared to theincrease of glycemia induced by glucose overload in normal rats and theglycemia reduction achieved with metformin (MET). Each bar representsthe mean±SEM of 6 animals. ** P<0.01, ***P<0.001, compared withvehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 3: Hypoglycemic effect ofN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2), 1 (A) and 3 (B) days after being administered orally toexperimental animals at 5 mg/kg dose compared to the increase ofglycemia induced by the glucose overload in normal rats (control) andthe glycemia reduction achieved with metformin (MET). Each barrepresents the mean±SEM of 6 animals. * P<0.05, ** P<0.01 compared withvehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 4: Hypoglycemic effect after 3 days, ofN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2) at 0.5, 1 and 5 mg/kg doses compared to the increase ofglycemia induced by glucose overload in normal rats and the glycemiareduction achieved with metformin (MET). Each bar represents themean±SEM of 6 animals. ** P<0.01 compared with vehicle-treated controlgroup.

FIG. 5: Plasma cholesterol levels in SHR hypertensive rats treated with4a or 5a or 7a at doses of 5 mg/kg the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during thenext 4 days and 15 mg/Kg until the end of the treatment period (25 days)or with metformin (MET) (positive control dissolved in water at 300mg/Kg) compared with plasma cholesterol levels of untreated SHR rats(vehicle or control). Each bar represents the mean±SEM of 6 animals.*P<0.05 and ***P<0.001 compared with vehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 6: Plasma triglycerides levels in SHR hypertensive rats treatedwith 4a at doses of 5 mg/kg the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during the next 4days and 15 mg/Kg until the end of the treatment period (25 days) orwith metformin (MET) (positive control dissolved in water at 300 mg/Kg)compared with plasma cholesterol levels of untreated SHR rats (vehicleor control). Each bar represents the mean±SEM of 6 animals. *P<0.05compared with vehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 7: Hypoglycemic effect of compounds 23b or 21a; 3 days after beingadministered orally to experimental animals at 10 mg/kg doses comparedto the increase of glycemia induced by the glucose overload in normalrats (vehicle-treated control group) and the glycemia reduction achievedwith metformin (MET). Each bar represents the mean of six animals andthe vertical lines show the S.E.M. *P<0.05; **P<0.01; ***P<0.001)compared with vehicle-treated control group.

FIG. 8: Hypoglycemic effect of compounds 21 b, 21e, 23e, 23a, 23d or26b; 5 days after being administered orally to experimental animals at10 mg/kg doses compared to the increase of glycemia induced by theglucose overload in normal rats (vehicle-treated control group) and theglycemia reduction achieved with metformin (MET). Each bar representsthe mean of five-eight animals and the vertical lines show the S.E.M.Asterisks denote the significance levels in comparison with thevehicle-treated control group (one-way ANOVA followed by Newman-Keulstest). (*p<0.05; **p<0.01, ***p<0.001).

DEFINITIONS

According to the invention, the term “metabolic syndrome” as usedherein, refers to a collection of factors (metabolic abnormalities),such as hypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, centralobesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hepatic steatosis amongothers, associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease.Metabolic syndrome is becoming increasingly common, largely as a resultof the increase in the prevalence of obesity (4). The InternationalDiabetes Foundation definition of metabolic syndrome is central obesity(body mass index >30 kg/m²) and two or more of: 1) triglycerides >150mg/dL; 2) high density lipoprotein (HDL)<40 mg/kL in males, <50 mg/dL infemales, or specific treatment for low HDL; 3) elevated blood pressure(BP), e.g., systolic BP >130 mm Hg or diastolic BP >85 mm Hg, ortreatment for elevated BP, or previous diagnosis of elevated BP; and 4)fasting blood glucose >100 mg/dL or previous diagnosis of type 2diabetes. For the purposes of present patent application terms as“metabolic syndrome”, “metabolic disease” or “metabolic disorders”should be taken as sinonimus.

According to the invention, the term “diabetes” as used herein, refersto group of metabolic diseases in which a person has high blood sugar,either because the body does not produce enough insulin, or becausecells do not respond to the insulin that is produced. There are threemain types of diabetes: (1) Type 1 diabetes (T1D): results from thebody's failure to produce insulin, and presently requires the person toinject insulin. (Also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetesmellitus, IDDM for short, and juvenile diabetes.) (2) Type 2 diabetesT2D): results from insulin resistance, a condition in which cells failto use insulin properly, sometimes combined with an absolute insulindeficiency. (Formerly referred to as non-insulin-dependent diabetesmellitus, NIDDM for short, and adult-onset diabetes.) (3) Gestationaldiabetes (GD): is when pregnant women, who have never had diabetesbefore, have a high blood glucose level during pregnancy. It may precededevelopment of T2D.

According to the invention, the term “hyperlipidemia orhyperlipoproteinemia, or hyperlipidaemia” as used herein refers to acondition of abnormally elevated levels of any or all lipids and/orlipoproteins in the blood.

According to the invention, the term “hypercholesterolemia” as usedherein refers to the presence of high levels of cholesterol in theblood. It is closely related to the terms “hyperlipidemia” (elevatedlevels of lipids in the blood) and “hyperlipoproteinemia” (elevatedlevels of lipoproteins in the blood).

According to the invention, the term “hypertriglyceridemia” as usedherein refers to a high level of all glycerides, includingmonoglycerides, diglycerides and triglycerides. It has been associatedwith cardiovascular diseases, i.e. atherosclerosis, even in the absenceof hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels).

According to the invention, the term “hypertension or high bloodpressure or arterial hypertension” as used herein refers to a chronicmedical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries iselevated. This requires the heart to work harder than normal tocirculate blood through the blood vessels. Normal blood pressure at restis within the range of 100-140 mmHg systolic (top reading) and 60-90mmHg diastolic (bottom reading). High blood pressure is said to bepresent if it is persistently at or above 140/90 mmHg. Hypertension is amajor risk factor for stroke, myocardial infarction (heart attacks),heart failure, aneurysms of the arteries (e.g. aortic aneurysm),peripheral arterial disease and is a cause of chronic kidney disease.Even moderate elevation of arterial blood pressure is associated with ashortened life expectancy.

According to the invention, the term “obesity or central obesity” asused herein refers to a medical condition in which excess body fat hasaccumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health,leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health problems.Body mass index (BMI), a measurement which compares weight and height,defines people as overweight (pre-obese) if their BMI is between 25 and30 kg/m², and obese when it is greater than 30 kg/m².

According to the invention, the term “nutraceutical or nutraucetic food”refers to any substance that could be a food or a part of a food andprovides medical or health benefits, including the prevention andtreatment of a disease,

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention is described hereto throughout the following exampleswhich have no limitative, but demonstrative, purposes.

Example 1 Process Synthesis of1-benzosubstituted-tetrahydro-β-carbolinic-3-Carboxylic Acid Derivatives(Compounds 1a and 1b)

The derivatives 3-carboxi-tetrahydro-β-carbolinic-1-benzosusbtituted(compounds 1a and 1b), were obtained through condensation of commercialL-tryptophan (5.0 mmol), with 1.1 equivalents of the followingaldehydes: anisaldehyde (a) and benzaldehyde (b). The mixture was keptunder reflux for approximately 2 hours in glacial acetic acid (20 ml),afterwards the pH was adjusted to pH=5 with concentrated ammoniumhydroxide and the resulting precipitation washed with water and filteredin a Büchner's funnel. The reactions provided the mixture of cis andtrans products (R-β and R-α group). The products 1a or 1b were obtainedwith a 92% and 87% yield, respectively.

Example 2 Process Synthesis ofmethyl-1-benzosubstituted-tetrahydro-β-carbolinic-3-carboxylateDerivatives (Compounds 2a and 2b)

To a solution of 3-carboxi-tetrahydro-β-carbolinic-1-benzosubstituted(compounds 1a and 1b) (3.5 mmol), in MetOH (10 ml), 1.0 ml of H₂SO₄concentrated was added. The solution was kept under reflux and agitationfor approximately 48 hrs. After evaporation of all methanol, theresulting product was neutralized with a solution of sodium bicarbonate10%. The organic phase was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×10 ml), driedup with sodium sulfate anhydrate and, after filtering off the dryingagent, the solvent was removed by means of a rotation-evaporator. Thecompounds (2a or 2b) were obtained, respectively, with an 82 to 87%output.

Example 3 Process Synthesis of methyl1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carboxylate Derivatives (Compounds 3aor 3b)

To a solution of 2.0 mmol ofmethyl-tetrahydro-β-carbolinic-3-carboxylate (compounds 2a or 2b), inxylene (25 ml), 2.5 sulfur equivalents were added. The solution was keptunder reflux and agitation for 12 hours and afterwards, 3 hours at 0° C.under agitation. The formed precipitation was filtered in a Büchner'sfunnel and washed with petroleum ether. The products (3a and 3b) wereobtained with a yield ranging 70 to 73%.

Example 4 Process Synthesis ofN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (Compound4a) and N(-propylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide(Compound 5a)

The compound 3a (2.0 mmol) with approximately 6.0 ml of ethylenediamine,was agitated at room temperature for 24 hours. After amine evaporationand recrystallization with methanol, it provided the 4a compound with anoutput of 55%.

The propylamine-β-carbolinic derivative (compound 5a) was obtained bythe addition to the methyl-β-carbolinic-3-carboxilate derivative(compound 3a) (1.7 mmol) an equimolar amount of propylenediamine inCHCl₃/MeOH 1:1 under reflux, for approximately 32 hours. The reactionwas monitored by thin layer chromatography. After evaporation of allchloroform and methanol, in a rotating evaporator, the product wasrecrystallized with methanol/acetone, obtaining an overall yield of 68%.

Example 5 Process Synthesis ofN-(hydrazyl)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide (Compounds6a and 6b)

To a solution of (3a) or (3b) compounds (2.97 mmol) in ethanol (40 ml),48.2 mmol of hydrated hydrazine were added. The reaction mixture waskept under reflux for 72 hours. The formed precipitation was filtered ina Büchner funnel and washed with ethanol. The products 6a and 6b wereobtained with a yield ranging 72 to 76%.

Example 6 Process Synthesis of3-(carbohydrazyl-n′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(Compounds 7a and 7b)

To a solution of N-hydrazyl-β-carbolinic (1.0 mmol) derivatives either(compound 6a) or (compound 6b) in water (10 ml), 2 drops of concentratedsulfuric acid were added. The mixture was kept under agitation, at 65°C., until complete solubilization. Afterwards, 1.50 mmol of therespective aromatic aldehydes (benzaldehyde for compound 6a orp-nitrobenzaldehyde for compound 6b) in ethanol (10 ml) were added andthe solution was kept in reflux for 24 hours. The mixture was put inice-bath and neutralized with a 10% sodium bicarbonate solution and theformed precipitate was filtered in a Buchner's funnel and recrystallizedwith methanol. The products 7a and 7b were obtained with a yield rangingof 58 to 60%.

Example 7 Process Synthesis of Compound 17a (IFC-1201-04)

To a suspension of 5-Methyl-DL-triptofan (1 g; 4.58 mmol) in MeOH (10mL) at 0° C. thionyl chloride (0.4 mL; 5.49 mmol) was added drop-wise.Mixture was refluxed (80° C.). After 4 hours p-anisaldehyde was addedover the heating solution (613 mg; 5.03 mmol.) in portions. HPLC-MSafter 10 hours showed two diastereoisomers. The mixture was cooled toroom temperature and was concentrated to dryness. The resulting crudewas dissolved in water (50 mL). DCM was added (20 mL) and saturatedNaHCO3 was added until pH=7. The layers were separated and the aqueousphase was extracted with DCM. The organic layers were washed with H2Oand brine. The layers were separated and organic layer was dried overNa2SO4, filtered and concentrated to dryness. The residue was purifiedby flash chromatography (SiO2, Hexane/acetona 20%) obtaining 837 mg ofthe mixture of diastereoisomers. Yield: 52%. HPLC-Ms: 99%(IFC-1201-01CF2)

To a solution of compound 14a (820 mg; 2.37 mmol) in Xilene (mixture; 40mL) was added sulphur (229 mg; 7.11 mmol). The mixture was refluxed.HPLC after 20 hours showed total conversion. The reaction was cooled andstirred for 2 hours. The solid formed was filtered. This solid waswashed with petroleum ether. 597 g of compound 15a were obtained. Yield:73%, HPLC-Ms: 98%. (IFC-1201-03S1) Melting point (M.p.): 285-286° C.

Compound 15a (597 mg, 1.72 mmol) was dissolved in ethylendiamine (4.6mL, 69 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperatureovernight. HPLC-Ms showed total conversion. The solvent was evaporatedto dryness and the solid obtained was dried in oven at 45° C. 552.9 mgof compound 16a were obtained. Yield: 86%, HPLC-Ms: 98%. (IFC-1201-04free base) M.p.: 207-208° C.

Finally, 520 mg (1.39 mmol) of compound 16a were dissolved in ethanol(13 mL) and HCl 1.25M in ethanol (5 mL) was added dropwise at roomtemperature for 2 hours. The solid formed was filtered obtaining 489 mgof compound 17a (IFC-1201-04) Yield: 96%, HPLC-Ms: 98%. (IFC-1201-04)M.p.: 255-256° C.

Example 8 Process Synthesis of Compound 17b (IFC-1201-05)

To a suspension of 6-Fluor-D,L-triptofan (1.5 g; 6.75 mmol) in MeOH (7.5mL) at 0° C., thionyl chloride (0.6 mL; 8.1 mmol) was added dropwise.The mixture was refluxed for 4 hours. HPLC-MS showed no startingmaterial and p-anisaldehyde was added over the heating solution (756 mg;1.1 equiv.) and the mixture was stirred overnight. HPLC-MS after 14hours showed two diastereoisomers (66%).

The mixture was cooled to room temperature and was concentrated todryness. The resulting crude was partitioned between water (50 mL) andDCM (20 mL), and saturated NaHCO3 was added until pH=7. The layers wereseparated and the aqueous phase was extracted with DCM (2×20 ml). Theorganic layers were washed with H₂O and brine, dried over Na₂SO₄,filtered and concentrated to dryness. The residue (1.9 g) was purifiedby flash chromatography (SiO₂, Hexane/AcOEt 2:1→1:2) obtaining 870 mg ofthe mixture of compound diastereoisomers (14b or JHG-1117-50CF2). Yield:36%. HPLC-Ms: 91%.

To a solution of compound 14b (860 mg; 2.43 mmol) in Xilene (mixture; 31mL) was added sulphur (390 mg; 12.14 mmol). The mixture was vigorouslyrefluxed. HPLC after 16 hours showed total conversion. The reaction wascooled in the fridge overnight. The solid formed was filtered and washedwith petroleum ether (2×20 ml) to obtain 620 mg of desired compound 15b(JHG-1117-545). Yield: 73%, HPLC-Ms: 100%. M.p.: 275-276° C.

Compound 15b (580 mg; 16.57 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (4.4mL; 66.29 mmol) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16hours. TLC shows total conversion. The mixture was concentrated todryness and the residue was triturated with stirring with water (25 ml)overnight. White solid was filtered and dried to afford 550 mg (HPLC-MS97%; Yield: 88%) of compound 16b (JHG-1117-57T). M.p.: 186-187° C.

Finally, compound 16b (510 mg; 1.35 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (13mL) and HCl 1.25 M in EtOH (5 mL) was added. A yellow solid was formed.The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 3 hours and filtered.Product was obtained as yellow solid 17b (IFC-1201-05): 528 mg; HPLC-MS99%. Yield: 97%. M.p.: 249-250° C.

Example 9 Process Synthesis of Compound 17c (IFC-1201-07)

To a suspension of 5-Methoxy-L-tryptophan (1 g; 4.27 mmol) in MeOH (5mL) at 0° C. thionyl chloride (0.37 mL; 5.12 mmol) was added dropwise.The mixture was refluxed for 4 hours. HPLC-MS showed no startingmaterial. P-anisaldehyde was added over the heating solution (756 mg;1.1 equiv.) and the mixture was stirred overnight. HPLC-MS after 14hours showed two diastereoisomers (79%).

The mixture was cooled to room temperature and was concentrated todryness. The resulting crude was dissolved in water (50 mL). DCM wasadded (20 mL) and saturated NaHCO₃ was added until pH=7. The layers wereseparated and the aqueous phase was extracted with DCM. The combinedorganic layers were washed with H2O and brine, dried over Na₂SO₄,filtered and concentrated to dryness. The residue (1.85 g) was purifiedby flash chromatography (SiO₂, Hexane/AcOEt 3:1) obtaining 226 mg of themixture of diastereoisomers of compound 14c (JHG-1117-49CF1). Yield:15%. HPLC-Ms: 95%. Another unidentified impurity was obtained (800 mg),likely due to degradation.

To a solution of compound 14c (180 mg; 0.49 mmol) in Xilene (mixture; 7mL) was added sulphur (80 mg; 2.46 mmol). The mixture was refluxed. HPLCafter 16 hours showed total conversion. The reaction was cooled and MTBEwas added. Solution was stored in the fridge for 2 hours. The solidformed was filtered and washed with petroleum ether to obtain 140 mg ofdesired compound. Filtrate was concentrated and purified by flashchromatography (SiO2, DCM→DCM/AcOEt 9:1) to obtain additional 14 mg ofcompound 15c (JHG-1117-565). Both solids were joined to afford 154 mg.Yield: 87%, HPLC-Ms: 97%.

Compound 15c (155 mg; 0.428 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (1.1mL; 17.12 mmol) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16hours. TLC shows total conversion. The mixture was concentrated todryness coevaporating with additions of H2O and EtOH in order toeliminate the traces of ethylenediamine remaining. Compound 16c(IFC-1201-07 free base) was obtained: 190 mg (HPLC-MS 97%).

Finally, compound 16c (190 mg; 0.428 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (4.2mL) and HCl 1.25 M in EtOH (1.6 mL) was added. A yellow solid wasformed. The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 3 hours andfiltered. Product was obtained as yellow solid 17c (IFC-1201-07): 160mg; HPLC-MS 96%. Yield: 90% (IFC-1201-07) M. p.: 215-216° C.

Example 10 Process Synthesis of Compound 21a (IFC-1102-79)

To a suspension of L-triptophan (700 mg; 3.42 mmol) in MeOH (7 mL) at 0°C. was added thionyl chloride (0.3 mL; 1.2 equiv.) drop-wise. Totalsolution was observed. The mixture was refluxed (80° C.). HPLC-MS(Liquid chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) after 2 hours showed totalconversion to the methyl ester. The aldehyde was added over the heatingsolution (403 mg; 1.1 equiv.) in portions. The mixture was refluxed for9 more hours. A yellow solid was observed which makes impossible thestirring. The solid was filtered and washed with MeOH. A yellow solidwas obtained: 390 mg. HPLC-MS data indicates that it corresponds tocompound 19a (94%; M=303) in hydrochloride form. NMR (Nuclear MagneticResonance) spectrum confirms the structure. The solid was dissolved intowater and saturated NaHCO3 was added until pH=8. A white solid wasobserved in suspension. It was filtered to give product 19a(IFC-1102-75S2): 280 mg, HPLC-MS 99%; Yield: 27%. NMR Structureconfirmed. The first filtrate from the reaction was concentrated todryness, solved in water and carried to pH=8 with saturated NaHCO₃solution. A beige solid was obtained. It was filtered to give: 509 mg ofa mixture of compound 18a (62%) and 19a (IFC-1102-75S2) (7%).

Compound 19a (180 mg; 0.59 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (1.6mL; 40.6 equiv.) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16hours. TLC (Thin-Layer Chromatography) shows total conversion. Themixture was concentrated to dryness. A beige solid was obtained: 191.5mg; HPLC-MS 96% product 20a (IFC-1102-79 free base); Yield: 98%.

Finally, compound 20a (188 mg) was dissolved in ethanol (5 mL) and HCl1.25 M in ethanol (2.3 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid wasformed. The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours andfiltered. Product was obtained as yellow solid 21a (IFC-1102-79): 197mg; HPLC-MS 99%. Yield: 95%. This compound was delivery in two batches.

Example 11 Process Synthesis of Compound 21 b (IFC-1102-92)

To a suspension of L-tryptophan (1 g; 4.89 mmol) in MeOH (10 mL) at 0°C. was added thionyl chloride (0.43 mL; 1.2 equiv) drop-wise. Totalsolution was observed. The mixture was refluxed (80° C.). HPLC-MS after2 hours showed total conversion to the methyl ester. The aldehyde wasadded over the heating solution (756 mg; 1.1 equiv.) in portions.HPLC-MS after 10 hours showed 3 peaks with the desired Mass. Two of themcorrespond to the diastereomers of 18b and the other one seems to be theintermediate imine. The mixture was refluxed 8 more hours in order tocomplete the reaction. HPLC after 8 hours did not show any evolutionwith 30% of imina. The mixture was cooled to room temperature and wasconcentrated to dryness. The resulting crude was dissolved in water andsaturated NaHCO3 was added until pH=8. A white solid was formed. It wasextracted with DCM. The organic layer was washed with water and brine,dried over MgSO4 and concentrated. A white solid was obtained: 1.65 g(HPLC showed product 18b and imine). This solid was purified by flashchromatography to obtain 440 mg of 18b (IFC-1102-82-C2F2) (HPLC-MS 96%);Yield: 28%.

To a solution of compound 18b (250 mg; 0.73 mmol) in Xilene (mixture; 12mL) was added sulphur (64 mg; 2.7 equiv). The mixture was refluxed. HPLCafter 20 hours showed little amount of starting material 18b so moresulphur was added (0.7 equiv). HPLC after 4 hours showed totalconversion. The reaction was cooled with an ice-water bath for 3 hours.A light red solid was obtained, filtered and washed with petroleumether. Product 19b (IFC-1102-88S1) was obtained as brown solid: 189 mg;HPLC-MS 99%; Yield: 77%.

Compound 19b (169 mg; 0.50 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (1.6mL; 48 equiv.) and was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. TLCconfirmed total conversion. The mixture was concentrated to dryness.Product 20b was obtained as beige solid: 174 mg; HPLC-MS 98%. RMN showeda little amount of ethylenediamine so it was washed with water, filteredand dried. Pure product 20b (IFC-1102-92 free base) was obtained: 155mg; Yield: (77%).

Compound 20b (155 mg; 0.42 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (5 mL) and HCl1.25 M in EtOH (2 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid was formed.The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and filtered.Product was obtained as yellow solid 21b (IFC-1102-92): 125 mg; HPLC-MS98%. Yield: 74%. This compound was delivery in two batches.

Example 12 Process Synthesis of Compound 21c (IFC-1102-93)

To a suspension of L-tryptophan (1 g; 4.89 mmol) in MeOH (10 mL) at 0°C. was added thionyl chloride (0.43 mL; 1.2 equiv) drop-wise. Totalsolution was observed. The mixture was refluxed (80° C.). HPLC-MS after2 hours showed total conversion to the methyl ester. The aldehyde wasadded over the heating solution (818 mg; 1.1 equiv.) in portions.HPLC-MS after 10 hours showed 3 peaks with the desired Mass. Two of themcorrespond to the diastereomers of 18c and the other one seems to be theintermediate imine. The mixture was refluxed 8 more hours in order tocomplete the reaction. HPLC after 8 hours showed little evolution with12% of imina. The mixture was cooled to room temperature and wasconcentrated to dryness. The resulting crude was dissolved in water andsaturated NaHCO₃ was added until pH=8. A white solid was formed. It wasfiltered and washed with water. A white solid was obtained: 1.03 g (HPLCshowed product 18c (80%) and imine). This solid was purified by silicagel chromatography column to obtain 810 mg of 18c (IFC-1102-83CF1)(HPLC-MS 99%); Yield: 47%.

To a solution of compound 18c (250 mg; 0.71 mmol) in Xylene (mixture; 12mL) was added sulphur (64 mg; 2.8 equiv). The mixture was refluxed. HPLCafter 20 hours showed little amount of starting material compound 18c somore sulphur was added (0.7 equiv). HPLC after 4 hours shows totalconversion. The reaction was cooled with an ice-water bath for 3 hours.A light yellow solid was obtained, filtered and washed with petroleumether. Product 19c (IFC-1102-89S1) was obtained as yellow solid: 170 mg;HPLC-MS 92%; Yield: 69%.

Compound 19c (155 mg; 0.44 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (1.6mL; 54 equiv.) and was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. HPLC-MSconfirmed total conversion. The mixture was concentrated to dryness.Product 20c (IFC-1102-93 free base) was obtained as beige solid: 160 mg;HPLC-MS 98%; Yield: (97%).

Compound 20c (150 mg; 0.40 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (5 mL) and HCl1.25 M in EtOH (2 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid was formed.The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and filtered.Product was obtained as yellow solid 21c (IFC-1102-93): 133 mg; HPLC-MS97%. Yield: 72%. (IFC-1102-93). This compound was delivery in twobatches.

Example 13 Process Synthesis of Compound 21d (IFC-1102-94)

To a suspension of L-tryptophan (3 g; 14.69 mmol) in MeOH (30 mL) at 0°C. was added thionyl chloride (1.3 mL; 17.9 mmol) drop-wise. Totalsolution was observed. The mixture was refluxed (80° C.). HPLC-MS after2 hours showed total conversion to the methyl ester. The aldehyde wasadded over the heating solution (1.97 g; 16.13 mmol) in portions.HPLC-MS after 28 hours showed total conversion. The mixture was cooledto room temperature and was concentrated to dryness. The resulting crudewas dissolved in water and saturated NaHCO₃ was added until pH=8. Awhite solid was formed. It was filtered and washed with water. A brownsolid was obtained: 3.45 g (HPLC: 90%). This solid was purified bysilica gel chromatography column (SiO2 Hexane/acetone 30%) obtaining1.08 g of 18d (IFC-1102-85CF1) (HPLC-MS 99%); Yield: 23%.

To a solution of compound 18d (500 mg; 1.55 mmol) in Xylene (mixture; 25mL) was added sulphur (140 mg; 4.34 mmol). The mixture was refluxed.HPLC after 64 hours showed total conversion. The reaction was cooled to0° C. overnight. A light yellow solid was obtained, filtered and washedwith petroleum ether. Compound 19d (IFC-1102-91S1) was obtained asyellow solid: 170 mg; HPLC-MS 96%; Yield: 82%. M. p.: 260-261° C.

Compound 19d (372 mg; 1.17 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (3.1mL; 46.8 mmol.) and was stirred at room temperature overnight. HPLC-MSconfirmed total conversion. The mixture was concentrated to dryness.Product 20d (IFC-1102-94 free base) was obtained as beige solid: 417 mg;HPLC-MS 94%; Yield: (quantitative). M. p.: 238-239° C.

Compound 20d (400 mg; 1.15 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (5 mL) and HCl1.25 M in EtOH (5 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid was formed.The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and filtered.The solid was washed with ethanol and dried in oven at 45° C. Productwas obtained as yellow solid 21d (IFC-1102-94): 309 mg; HPLC-MS 98%.Yield: 70%. M.p.: 301-303° C. This compound was delivery in two batches.

Example 14 Process Synthesis of Compound 21e (IFC-1102-96)

L-Tryptophan (2.62 g, 12.84 mmoles) was suspended in MeOH (5.47 mL) andthe cooled at 0° C. SOCl₂ (1.14 mL, 15.52 mmoles) was dropwise added andreaction mixture was heated to reflux for 2 h. LC-MS (LiquidChromatography-Mass Spectrometry) did not show starting material.4-(Trifluoromethyl)-benzaldehyde (2.03 mL, 11.89 mmoles) was added andreaction mixture was stirred at reflux for 6 h. After checking thatreaction was finished, it was evaporated to dryness. Residue was solvedin Water (27 mL) and neutralized with NaHCO₃ sat (17.28 mL) and washedwith EtOAc (3×54 mL). Phases were separated and organic layer wasevaporated to dryness. Crude was purified by flash chromatography usingHexane/EtOAc 5:1 to 1:1 as eluent. Compound 18e (AST-1112-83) (2.18 g,Yield: 45.4%) was obtained as a clear brown solid. Lc-Ms=95.6%.

Compound 18e (2.18 g, 5.82 mmoles) was suspended in a mixture of Xilene(81 mL) and S (0.465 g, 14.55 mmoles) was added. The mixture wasrefluxed overnight. LC-MS did not show starting material. Reactionmixture was cooled to 4° C. and a solid was filtered and washed withpetroleum ether (10 mL). Compound 19e (AST-1112-84) (1.4 g, Yield 65%)was obtained as a brown solid. LC-MS=98.5%.

Compound 19e (1.0 g; 2.7 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (7.2 mL;40 equiv.) and was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. HPLC-MSconfirmed total conversion. The mixture was concentrated to dryness.Product 20e (IFC-1102-96) was obtained as beige solid: 1.07 g; HPLC-MS98%. Yield: 99%.

Compound 20e (513 mg; 1.28 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (13 mL) andHCl 1.25 M in EtOH (5 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid wasformed. The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours andfiltered. Product 21e (IFC-1102-96) was obtained as a yellow solid: 465mg; HPLC-MS 98°/0. Yield: 84%. M.p.: 283-284° C.

Example 15 Process Synthesis of Compound 21f (IFC-1201-06)

L-Tryptophan (2.00 g, 9.88 mmoles) was suspended in MeOH (20 mL) and thecooled at 0° C. SOCl₂ (0.87 mL, 12 mmoles) was drop-wise added andreaction mixture was heated to reflux for 2 h. LC-MSs did not showstarting material. 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde (1.31 g, 10 mmoles) was addedand reaction mixture was stirred at reflux overnight. After checkingthat reaction was finished, it was evaporated to dryness. Residue wassolved in Water (27 mL) and neutralized with NaHCO₃ sat (17.28 mL). Abrown solid was formed and filtered. This solid was purified by flashchromatography using Hexane/Acetone 7:3 to 1:1 as eluent. Compound 18f(IFC-1102-90CF1) (945 mg, Yield: 30%) was obtained as a clear brownsolid. Lc-Ms=98%

Compound 18f (445 mg, 1.38 mmoles) was suspended in a mixture of Xilene(25 mL) and S (133 mg, 4.15 mmoles) was added. The mixture was refluxedfor 44 hours. Lc-Ms did not show starting material. Reaction mixture wascooled to 4° C. and a solid was filtered and washed with petroleum ether(10 mL). Compound 19f (IFC-1201-02S1) (263 mg, Yield 60%) was obtainedas a brown solid. Lc-Ms=90%.

Compound 19f (263 mg; 0.82 mmol) was dissolved in ethylenediamine (2.6mL; 39 mmol) and was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. HPLC-MSconfirmed total conversion. The mixture was concentrated to dryness.Product 20f (IFC-1201-06) was obtained as beige solid: 196.8 mg; HPLC-MS91%. Yield: 75%.

Compound 20f (196 mg; 0.61 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (4 mL) and HCl1.25 M in EtOH (1.5 mL) was added drop-wise. A yellow solid was formed.The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and filtered.Product 21f (IFC-1201-06) was obtained as a yellow solid: 108 mg;HPLC-MS 96%. Yield: 52%.

Example 16 Process Synthesis of Compound 23a (JHG-1117-24)

L-Tryptophan (20 g, 0.098 mol) was suspended in methanol (100 mL). Thissuspension was cooled at 0° C. and SOCl2 (8.75 mL, 0.12 mol) was addeddropwise. After, the reaction mixture was heated to reflux for 2.5hours. During this time the starting material was completely dissolvedand the solution was dark orange. After 2 hours an aliquot wasconcentrated to dryness and analyzed by HPLC-MS (99% of compound 6(IQT-11-37)) and 1H-NMR checking that the starting material wasdisappeared.

p-Anisaldehyde (32.5 mL, 0.28 mol) was added over the solutionpreviously prepared, and this mixture was refluxed for 15 hours. Afterthis time the reaction was checked by HPLC-MS. The starting material wasdisappeared. The reaction mixture was concentrated to dryness. Theresidue was dissolved in H2O (250 mL) and neutralized till pH-7 withNaHCO3 sat. (≈100 mL). This solution was extracted with Ethyl Acetate(3×400 ml). The organic layer was washed with H₂O (2×400 ml) and NaClsat. (2×200 mL). The organic layer was dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered andconcentrated to dryness to obtain 30 g of compound 2a (IQT-11-37)(Yield: 91%) of a crude (HPLC-MS (purity): 94% mixture of twodiastereoisomers. This crude was used in the next step with no furtherpurification.

Compound 2 (29.22 g, 0.087 mol) was suspended in a mixture of xylene(1080 mL) and S (13.9 g, 0.43 mol) was added. The mixture was refluxedfor 22 hours. TLC and LC-MS: No SM was observed. After this time thereaction was cooled at 3° C. and kept with stirring overnight. Brownsolid was filtered and washed with petroleum ether. Checking by HPLC-MS(94% 3a and 3% Xylene) and 1H-NMR showed no pure compound 3a. Brownsolid (21.5 g) was purified by flash chromatography in silicagel(DCM→DCM-AcOEt 9:1) to obtain pure compound 3a (IQT-11-37) (15.1 g;Yield: 52%)

To a suspension of compound 3a (400 mg, 1.20 mmol) in EtOH (4 ml) atroom temperature, morpholine (0.5 ml; 6 mmol) was added. Startingmaterial was solved and the mixture was heated to reflux. After 43 h,LC-MS showed no SM (42% of compound 22a). Mixture was cooled to roomtemperature and water (15 ml) was added. Mixture was stirred for 30minutes and filtered. Cream colour solid obtained (260 mg) was purifiedby column chromatography in silicagel (Hexane: AcOEt 1:1) to afford purecompound 22a (JHG-1117-11-CF1) (140 mg; LC-MS: 100%; Yield: 30%).

Compound 22a (136 mg; 0.340 mmol) was treated with a 1.25M solution ofHCl (g) in EtOH (13.6 ml; 17.0 mmol) and stirred overnight. The paleyellow solid precipitated was filtered and washed with cold EtOH toobtain pure compound 23a (JHG-1117-24) (130 mg; LC-MS: 99%; Yield: 83%).118 mg were delivered in two batches.

Example 17 Process Synthesis of Compound 23b (JHG-1117-26)

Compound 3a (0.60 g, 1.80 mmol) (see Example 16) was solved and stirredin N,N-dimethylethylenediamine (8.2 mL, 75.1 mmol) at room temperatureovernight. TLC after 15 hours showed starting material remaining.Mixture was heated at 50° C. and after additional 4 hours the reactionwas completed. The mixture was concentrated to dryness to remove theexcess of dimethylethylenediamine. Crude was triturated in water andfiltered to obtain 490 mg of a brown solid that was purified by flashchromatography in silicagel (Acetone→Acetone: EtOH 9:1). Pure compound22b (JHG-1117-5-CF1) was obtained as pale yellow solid (240 mg; LC-MS:100%; Yield: 34%).

Compound 22b (240 mg; 0.618 mmol) was treated with a 1.25M solution ofHCl (g) in EtOH (24.7 ml; 30.9 mmol). The orange solution formed wasstirred at room temperature for 15 hours. Solvent was removed and theresulting reddish oil was triturated with iPrOH for 2 hours. Solidobtained was filtered and washed with MTBE to afford pure compound 23b(JHG-1117-26) (170 mg; LC-MS: 100%; Yield: 65%). 120 mg were delivered(two batches).

Example 18 Process Synthesis of Compound 23c (JHG-1117-28)

To a suspension of compound 3a (see Example 16) (400 mg, 1.20 mmol) inEtOH (4 ml) at room temperature, N-methylpiperazine (5.4 ml; 48.7 mmol)was added. Starting material was solved and the yellow solution washeated to reflux. After 137 h, LC-MS showed no SM (27% of compound 22c).Mixture was cooled to room temperature and concentrated to dryness.Resulting black oil was precipitated in water (10 ml) and clear brownsolid obtained was filtered, washed with water and dried. This solid(330 mg; 49% of 22c by LC-MS) was purified by flash chromatography insilica gel (Acetone→Acetone: EtOH 10:1) to obtain pure compound 22c(JHG-1117-10-CF1) (147 mg; LC-MS: 96%; Yield: 30%).

Compound 22c (136 mg; 0.340 mmol) was treated with a 1.25M solution ofHCl (g) in EtOH (13.6 ml; 17.0 mmol) and stirred overnight. The paleyellow solid precipitated was filtered and washed with cold EtOH toobtain pure compound 23c (JHG-1117-28) (148 mg; LC-MS: 97%; Yield: 99%).132 mg were delivered (two batches).

Example 19 Process Synthesis of Compound 23d (JHG-1117-41)

A mixture of compound 3a (see Example 16) (0.50 g, 1.50 mmol) and2-aminoethanol (2.7 ml, 45 mmol) was heated to 100° C. and stirred for 5hours. TLC showed no starting material. Mixture was cooled to roomtemperature and water was added (20 ml). After 10 minutes, white solidprecipitated was filtered and dried in vacuum to obtain compound 22d(JHG-1117-30S) (500 mg; LC-MS: 99%; Yield: 92%).

A suspension of the compound 22d (370 mg; 1.02 mmol) in a 1.25M solutionof HCl (g) in EtOH (24.6 ml; 30.72 mmol) was stirred for 5 hours. Afterthis time, the starting material was disappeared by TLC. Precipitatedsolid of compound 23d (JHG-1117-41) was filtered and dried in vacuumovernight (330 mg; LC-MS: 100%; Yield: 81%). 126 mg were delivered (twobatches).

Example 20 Process Synthesis of Compound 23e (JHG-1117-27S2)

To a solution of compound 3a (see Example 16) (0.50 g, 1.50 mmol) in DCM(5 ml), 1,4-diaminobutane (2.65 g, 30 mmol) was added and the mixturestirred at room temperature overnight. TLC after 22 hours showed nostarting material remaining. Water (15 ml) was added and the phases wereseparated. Organic layer was washed with water (8×30 ml) and brine,dried over sodium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Yellowoil obtained (700 mg) was purified by column chromatography in silicagel((Acetone→Acetone: EtOH 9:1) and after, treated with MTBE andconcentrated to dryness (this treatment was repeated twice) affordingthe compound 22e (JHG-1117-8) as greenish solid (420 mg; LC-MS: 97%;Yield: 72%).

Compound 22e (390 mg; 1.00 mmol) was solved in a 1.25M solution of HCl(g) in EtOH (35 ml; 43.7 mmol). Mixture was stirred at room temperaturefor 15 hours. Solvent was removed and the resulting reddish oil wastriturated with iPrOH for 2 hours, filtered and washed with a mixtureiPrOH-MTBE 1:1 to obtain a pale brown solid (LC-MS: 87% 23e). This solidwas suspended in hot iPrOH (15 ml) and stirred 3 hours. Warm suspensionwas filtered and dried to obtain pure compound 23e (JHG-1117-27-52) asbeige solid (160 mg; LC-MS: 97%; Yield: 38%). 124 mg of compound 23ewere delivered (two batches).

Example 21 Process Synthesis of Compound 23f ((IFC-1201-09)

Compound 3a (obtained by the process disclosed in Example 16) (1.0 gg,3.0 mmol) was dissolved in 2-methoxyethylamine (6.7 ml, 78 mmol) and themixture was stirred at room temperature for 3 days. After this time awhite solid was formed. This solid was filtered and washed with waterand dried in oven at 45° C. 616 mg of compound 22f (IFC-1201-09 freebase) were obtained (LC-MS: 98%; Yield: 55%). M.p.: 200-201° C.

Compound 22f (362 mg; 0.93 mmol) was solved in Ethanol (9 mL) and 1.25Msolution of HCl (g) in EtOH (3.5 ml) was added. Mixture was stirred atroom temperature for 4 hours. A yellow solid was formed, filtered andwashed with EtOH to obtain 300.7 mg of a yellow solid (Yield: 75%,LC-MS: 87% 23f). (IFC-1201-09) were delivered (two batches). M.p.:109-110° C.

Example 22 Process Synthesis of Compound 26a (JHG-1117-29)

To a solution of compound 3a (see Example 15) (300 mg, 0.9 mmol) inanhydrous DMF (5 ml), under N2 at room temperature, NaH 60% dispersionin mineral oil (55 mg, 1.35 mmol) was added (mixture turning to redsolution). Mixture was stirred for 10 minutes and MeI (0.17 ml; 2.7mmol) was dropwise added. Reaction mixture was stirred at thistemperature overnight. LC-MS showed no starting material. Water (25 ml)and AcOEt (25 ml) were added and phases were separated. Organic layerwas washed with H2O (2×) and brine, dried over sodium sulfate, filteredand concentrated to dryness. Resulting yellow oil (370 mg) was purifiedby flash chromatography in silica-gel (Hexmane-AcOEt 2:1→1:1) to affordcompound 24a (JHG-1117-14-CF1) as pale yellow solid (260 mg; LC-MS:100%; Yield: 84%.

To a solution of compound 24a (0.50 g, 1.50 mmol) in DCM (3 ml),Ethylenediamine (2 ml; 30 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred atroom temperature overnight. TLC after 15 hours showed no startingmaterial remaining. Water (10 ml) was added and DCM was evaporated.Cream solid precipitated was filtered and washed several times withwater (3×10 ml) in order to eliminate the excess of ethylenediamine.Pure compound 25a (JHG-1117-19-S): was obtained as beige solid (270 mg;LC-MS: 98%; Yield: 96%).

Compound 25a (260 mg; 0.694 mmol) was treated, at room temperature, witha 1.25M solution of HCl (g) in EtOH (18 ml; 22.5 mmol) and the initialsolution turning to suspension after 5 minutes of stirring. After 15hours at this temperature, the mixture was filtered, washed with morecold EtOH and dried in vacuum overnight (285 mg; LC-MS: 98%; Yield:Quantitat). 132 mg of compound 26a (JHG-1117-29) were delivered (twobatches).

Example 23 Process Synthesis of Compound 26b (JHG-1117-43)

To a solution of compound 3a (see Example 16) (500 mg, 1.5 mmol) inanhydrous DMF (10 ml), under N₂ at room temperature, NaH 60% dispersionin mineral oil (90 mg, 2.25 mmol) was added (mixture turning to redsolution). Mixture was stirred for 10 minutes and Benzyl bromide (0.72ml; 6.02 mmol) was dropwise added. Reaction mixture was stirred at thistemperature for 4.5 hours. TLC showed no starting material. Water (50ml) and AcOEt (20 ml) were added and phases were separated. Organiclayer was washed with H₂O (3×), sat. NH₄Cl solution and brine, driedover sodium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Resultingsolid (1.5 g) was triturated with acetone to obtain white solid (210 mg;LC-MS: 99%; JHG-1117-31-S). Filtrate was concentrated (900 mg) andpurified by flash chromatography in silica-gel (Hexane-AcOEt 4:1→3:1) toafford another white solid (280 mg; LC-MS: 100%; JHG-1117-31-CF1). Bothsolids were joined to obtain compound 24b (JHG-1117-31) 490 mg (Yield:77%).

To a solution of compound 24b (450 mg, 1.066 mmol) in DCM (7 ml),ethylenediamine (2 ml; 30 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred atroom temperature overnight. TLC after 15 hours showed no startingmaterial remaining. Water (15 ml) was added and DCM was evaporated.Orange solid suspended in water was triturated until a solid was formed.Filtration, washed with water and drying of this solid gave purecompound 25b (JHG-1117-37-S2) (404 mg; LC-MS: 99%; Yield: 84%).

Compound 25b (400 mg; 0.889 mmol) was treated, at room temperature, witha 1.25M solution of HCl (g) in EtOH (21.3 ml; 26.67 mmol) and theinitial solution turning to suspension after 5 minutes of stirring.After 2 hours at this temperature, the mixture was filtered, washed withmore cold EtOH and dried in vacuum overnight (230 mg; LC-MS: 100%;Yield: 53%). 127 mg (JHG-1117-43) were delivered (two batches).

Example 24 Alternative Process Synthesis of Compound 4a (IFC-1102-48S)

To obtain the compound 8, L-Tryptophan (50 g, 0.24 mol) was suspended inmethanol (100 mL). This suspension was cooled at 0° C. and SOCl₂ (21.5mL, 0.29 mol) was added dropwise. After, the reaction mixture was heatedto reflux for 2 hours. During this time the starting material wascompletely dissolved and the solution was dark. After 2 hours an aliquotwas concentrated to dryness and analyzed by HPLC-MS and 1H-NMR checkingthat compound 6a was obtained and the starting material was disappeared.

To obtain the compound 2a, first anisaldehyde (32.5 mL, 0.28 mol) wasadded over the solution previously prepared, and this mixture wasrefluxed for 8 hours. After this time the reaction was checked byHPLC-MS. The starting material was disappeared. The reaction mixture wasconcentrated to dryness. The residue was dissolved in H₂O (500 mL) andwas neutralized with NaHCO₃ sat. (≈320 mL). This solution was extractedwith Ethyl Acetate (3×1 L). The organic layer was washed with H₂O (2×1L) and NaCl sat. (2×500 mL). The organic layer was dried over Na₂SO₄,filtered and concentrated to dryness to obtain 82.9 g of a crude(HPLC-MS (purity): 76% mixture of two diastereoisomers). This crude waspurified by flash chromatography in SiO₂ (eluents: hexane/EtOAc3:1→EtOAc). In this case (it is no necessary) we separated the twodiastereoisomers to analyze them. After, these were joined to preparecompound 3a. 54.88 g (yield: 67%) of the mixture of diastereoisomerswere obtained with purity upper than 90%.

To obtain compound 3a, the previously obtained compound 2 (50.0 g, 0.148mol) was suspended in a mixture of xilene (1800 mL) and S (23.68 g, 0.74mol) was added. The mixture was refluxed for 22 hours. After this timethe reaction was cooled at 4° C. and kept with agitation overnight. Alight brown solid was obtained. This solid was washed with petroleumether and checking by HPLC-MS and 1H-NMR. 39.11 g (yield: 79%) ofcompound 3a were obtained.

Finally, to obtained compound 4a, the previously obtained compound 3a(5.6 g, 0.017 mol) was suspended in ethylenediamine (51 mL, 0.73 mol)and this solution was stirred at room temperature overnight. Thereaction was checking by TLC. The reaction mixture was concentrated todryness to remove the excess of ethylenediamine. 7.4 g of compound 4awere obtained. This compound was recrystallized in methanol (90 mL) andwas kept cold overnight. The solid obtained was filtered. Finally, 4.8 g(yield: 78%) of compound 4a (IFC-1102-48S) were obtained by the processdisclosed herein with a purity of 98.6%.

To obtain the compound 4a hydrochloride (4a HCl), the compound 4a (0.1g, 0.27 mmol) was treated, at room temperature, with a 1.25M solution ofHCl (g) in EtOH (0.43 mL, 0.54 mmol) and the initial solution turning tosuspension after 5 hours of stirring. A white solid (57 mg of compound4a HCl) was formed. It was filtered and washed with cool EtOH. Toconfirm whether the compound 4a HCl obtained is mono or dihydrochlorideas would be necessary to perform elemental analysis for example: HPCL,LC-MS, etc. The obtained compound is soluble in water. Structureconfirmed by NMR.

Example 25 Alternative Process Synthesis of Compound 5a (IFC-1102-57S)

Compound 3a (6.0 g; 18 mmol) (obtained by the process disclosed inExample 24) was dissolved in 1,3-diaminepropane (60 mL; 40 eq.) and wasstirred at room temperature overnight. After 16 hours, HPLC-MS showedtotal conversion. The excess of diamine was removed in the rotatoryevaporator. A brown solid was obtained. This solid was triturated withacetone for 2 hours and then was filtered, obtained a white solidcorresponding to the compound 5a (HPLC-MS (purity): 98%). 1H-NMR of thissolid showed rests of diamine so it was necessary to wash with morewater. The solid was filtered and dried in a vacuum oven at 40° C. Thesolid was washed again with acetone, filtered and dried. 5.42 g (yield:80%) of compound 5a were obtained as a white solid (purity HPLC-MS:99%).

Example 26 Alternative Process Synthesis of Compound 7a (PGP-11048SR1)

Compound 3a (13 g; 39.15 mmol) (obtained by the process disclosed inExample 24) was suspended in ethanol (500 mL) and hydrazine monohydrate(20 ml; 626.4 mmol) was added at room temperature. The reaction mixturewas refluxed for 29 hours. After this time the reaction was cooled andthe crude was filtered. The solid obtained was washed with EtOH (70 mL)and dried to obtain 12.2 g (yield: 94%) of compound 9 (purity HPLC-MS:93%) as a white solid.

Method A:

Compound 9 (12 g; 36.14 mmol) was suspended in H2O (360 mL) and H₂SO₄(0.6 ml; 0.011 mmol) at room temperature. The reaction mixture wasrefluxed for 30 minutes (T^(a)ext:100° C. Totally solubilization was notobserved). After, a solution of benzaldehyde (5.5 ml; 54.21 mmol) inEtOH (360 ml) was added slowly during 40 minutes. The reaction wasrefluxed for 20 hours. The crude was cooled to 0° C. and neutralizedwith NaHCO₃ (10%) pH-7). The crude was filtered and dried. The solidobtained was recrystallized in MeOH (15.9 g in 1.85 L de MeOH) obtaining10.5 g of compound 7a (purity HPLC-MS: 99%; Yield: 69%) as a whitesolid.

Method B:

Compound 9 (400 mg; 1.2 mmol) was suspended in EtOH (12 ml) and heatedto reflux. Benzaldehyde (0.18 ml; 1.8 mmol) in EtOH (12 ml) was addedslowly (when the addition was finished the solubilization was full). Thereaction was refluxed for 18 hours. The crude was concentrated obtaininga solid (700 mg). This solid was recrystallized in MeOH (700 mg in 70 mlde MeOH) obtaining 418 mg of compound 7a (purity HPLC-MS: 99%; Yield:83%) as a white solid.

Example 27 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazideDerivative (Compound 7a or ANIS-BZ) in an Oral Glucose Tolerance TestPerformed in Normoglycemic Rats.

Male Wistar rats were utilized provided by Mato Grosso do Sul's FederalUniversity's Biotherium. Until the experiments were carried out, theanimals have had free access to feed and water. The room temperature waskept at 22±2° C. and the light/dark cycle was of 12 hours.

All procedures were submitted to the Animal Experimentation EthicsCommittee.

The glucose tolerance test is a reference method for the diagnosis ofdiabetes or glucose intolerance (5).

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ) at doses: 0.5, 1 or 5 mg/kg or vehicle(control) for 3 days. Similarly, another rat group received metformin(reference drug used for lowering glucose serum levels) in a 300 mg/kgdose, orally, once a day for 3 days. The oral glucose tolerance test wascarried out by administering of a glucose solution (2 g/kg body mass).Glycemia was determined at zero time (before oral administering) and at60 minutes after the glucose overload.

FIG. 1A shows that on the first day, the oral treatment with3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ) in a 5 mg/kg dose, reduces the glycemic levelsof animals that received an oral glucose overload when compared to thecontrol group. Similarly, the oral treatment with metformin inducesreduction of glycemic levels, but a doses 60 times fold higher.

FIG. 1B shows that after 3 days, the oral treatment with3-(carbohydrazyl-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ), at 5 mg/kg dose, reduces the glycemic levelsof animals that received oral glucose overload when compared to thecontrol group. Similarly, the oral treatment with metformin inducesglycemic levels reduction but a doses 60 times fold higher.

FIG. 2 shows that after 3 days of oral treatment with3-(carbohydrazil-N′-phenylsubstituted)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carbolinic-3-carbohydrazide(compound 7a or ANIS-BZ), only the 1 and 5 mg/kg doses reducedstatistically significant the glycemic levels of animals that receivedoral glucose overload when compared to the control group. Similarly, theoral treatment with metformin induces reduction of glycemic levels, buta doses 60 times fold higher.

Example 28 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of N(-Ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide(Compound 4a or ANIS-NH2) in an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Performed inNormoglycemic Rats.

Distinct groups of rats were treated orally, once a day, withN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2) at doses: 0.5, 1 or 5 mg/kg, or vehicle for 3 days.Similarly, another group of rats received metformin in a 300 mg/kg doseorally for 3 days once a day. The oral glucose tolerance test was doneunder the administration of a glucose solution (2 g/kg body mass).Glycemia will be determined at the zero (before oral administration)time and 60 minutes after glucose overload.

FIG. 3A shows that on the first day, the oral treatment withN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2) in a 5 mg/kg dose, reduces the glycemic levels of animalsthat received an oral glucose overload when compared to the controlgroup. Similarly, the oral treatment with metformin induces reduction ofglycemic levels, but a doses 60 times fold higher.

FIG. 3B shows that after 3 days, the oral treatment withN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2), at 5 mg/kg dose, reduces the glycemic levels of animalsthat received oral glucose overload when compared to the control group.Similarly, the oral treatment with metformin induces glycemic levelsreduction but a doses 60 times fold higher.

FIG. 4 shows that after 3 days of oral treatment withN(-ethylamine)-1-benzosubstituted-β-carboline-3-carboxamide (compound 4aor ANIS-NH2), only the 1 and 5 mg/kg doses reduced statisticallysignificant the glycemic levels of animals that received oral glucoseoverload when compared to the control group. Similarly, the oraltreatment with metformin induces reduction of glycemic levels, but adoses 60 times fold higher.

Example 29 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of Compounds 4a (IFC-1102-48S), 5a (IFC-1102-57S) and 7a(PGP-11048SR1) on Systolic Blood Pressure Test Performed in SHRHypertensive Rats.

Male Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR) were provided by CharlesRiver Laboratories (USA). Until the experiments were carried out, theanimals have had free access to feed and water. The room temperature waskept at 22±2° C. and the light/dark cycle was of 12 hours. Allprocedures were submitted to the Animal Experimentation EthicsCommittee.

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with 5 mg/kg ofcompounds 4a or 5a or 6a during the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during thenext 4 days and 15 mg/kg until the end of the treatment period orvehicle (control) for the same days. Similarly, another rat groupreceived metformin (MET) (reference drug used for lowering glucose serumlevels) in a 300 mg/kg dose, orally, from day 1 to the end of thetreatment. Plasma cholesterol levels were measured in triplicate 12hours after drug administration by the cholesterol oxidase/peroxidasemethod (BioSystems S.A, Barcelona, Spain). Blood samples were obtainedby femoral vein punction. This method was chosen because of itsnoninvasive character, enabling daily measurements with the same ratsthroughout the entire treatment.

Compounds 4a, 5a and in a less degree compound 7a, disclosed in thepresent invention, shows in SHR rats an inhibitory effect on systolicblood pressure at different times and doses of treatment. This effect at5-15 mg/kg is greater than that of metformin at 300 mg/kg. Rats treatedwith compound 4a (p<0.001), 5a (p<0.001) and 7a (p<0.05) decreased thesystolic blood pressure between 5-7%, compared to the vehicle-controlgroup, statistically significant.

Example 30 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of compounds 4a (IFC-1102-485), 5a (IFC-1102-575) and 7a(PGP-11048SR1) on plasma cholesterol levels test performed in SHRhypertensive rats.

Male SHR were provided by Charles River Laboratories (USA). Until theexperiments were carried out, the animals have had free access to feedand water. The room temperature was kept at 22±2° C. and the light/darkcycle was of 12 hours. All procedures were submitted to the AnimalExperimentation Ethics Committee.

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with 5 mg/kg ofcompounds 4a or 5a or 6a during the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during thenext 4 days and 15 mg/kg until the end of the treatment period orvehicle (control) for the same days. Similarly, another rat groupreceived metformin (reference drug used for lowering glucose serumlevels) in a 300 mg/kg dose, orally, from day 1 to the end of thetreatment. Blood pressure was measured in triplicate 4 hours after drugadministration in warmed, restrained, conscious rats by the tail-cuffmethod with a computerized oscillometric system recorder (Nyprem system645, Cibertec). This method was chosen because of its noninvasivecharacter, enabling daily measurements with the same rats throughout theentire treatment.

Compounds 4a, 5a and 7a, disclosed in the present invention shows, inSHR rats, inhibition of plasma cholesterol levels at 25 days oftreatment (15 mg/Kg) similar to Metformin (300 mg/Kg) (FIG. 5), althoughthe latter did the effect at much higher concentration (20 times foldhigher). This result indicates that said compounds are candidates tobecome medicaments to treat hypercholesterolemia or metabolic syndrome.The effect on plasma cholesterol levels was more pronounced forcompounds 5a and 7a (FIG. 5).

Example 31 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of compound 4a (IFC-1102-48S) on plasma triglyceride levels testperformed in SHR hypertensive rats.

Male SHR were provided by Charles River Laboratories (USA). Until theexperiments were carried out, the animals have had free access to feedand water. The room temperature was kept at 22±2° C. and the light/darkcycle was of 12 hours. All procedures were submitted to the AnimalExperimentation Ethics Committee.

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with 5 mg/kg ofcompound 4a during the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during the next 4 days and15 mg/kg until the end of the treatment period or vehicle (control) forthe same days. Similarly, another rat group received metformin(reference drug used for lowering glucose serum levels) in a 300 mg/kgdose, orally, from day 1 to the end of the treatment. Plasmatriglyceride levels were measured in triplicate 12 hours after drugadministration by the glycerol phosphate oxidase/peroxidase method(BioSystems S.A, Barcelona, Spain). Blood samples were obtained byfemoral vein punction. This method was chosen because of its noninvasivecharacter, enabling daily measurements with the same rats throughout theentire treatment.

As shown in FIG. 6, Compound 4a disclosed in the present inventionshows, in SHR rats a statistically significant (p<0.05), inhibition ofplasma triglyceride levels at 25 days of treatment (5-15 mg/Kg).

Example 32 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of compound 5a (IFC-1102-57S) on body weight in SHR hypertensiverats.

Male SHR were provided by Charles River Laboratories (USA). Until theexperiments were carried out, the animals have had free access to feedand water. The room temperature was kept at 22±2° C. and the light/darkcycle was of 12 hours. All procedures were submitted to the AnimalExperimentation Ethics Committee.

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with 5 mg/kg ofcompound 5a during the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during the next 4 days and15 mg/kg until the end of the treatment period or vehicle (control) forthe same days. Similarly, another rat group received metformin(reference drug used for lowering glucose serum levels) in a 300 mg/kgdose, orally, from day 1 to the end of the treatment. Rats were weightedin a CHYO MK2000B precision weight chamber.

Compound 5a showed a statistically significant effect in lowering SHRbody weight compared to control untreated rats (p<0.05).

Example 33 Pre-Clinical Studies in Experimental Animals

Effect of compound 4a (IFC-1102-48S) on blood glucose levels testperformed in SHR hypertensive rats.

Male SHR were provided by Charles River Laboratories (USA). Until theexperiments were carried out, the animals have had free access to feedand water. The food was removed 12 h before glucose determination. Theroom temperature was kept at 22±2° C. and the light/dark cycle was of 12hours. All procedures were submitted to the Animal ExperimentationEthics Committee.

Distinct rat groups were orally treated, once a day, with 5 mg/kg ofcompound 4a during the first 4 days, 10 mg/kg during the next 4 days and15 mg/kg until the end of the treatment period or vehicle (control) forthe same days. Similarly, another rat group received metformin in a 300mg/kg dose, orally, from day 1 to the end of the treatment. Bloodglucose levels were measured in triplicate 12 hours after drugadministration with the aid of a GLUCOCARD™ G meter, GT-1810. Resultswere compared with the effect of metformin at the same dosis as thecompounds. Blood samples were obtained by femoral vein punction. Thismethod was chosen because of its noninvasive character, enabling dailymeasurements with the same rats throughout the entire treatment.

Compound 4a showed statistically significant (p<0.01) blood glucosedecrease in the range of doses from 5 to 15 mg/kg after treatmentperiods of 4-15 days between 5-7%, compared to the vehicle-controlgroup. Metformin (300 mg/kg for 23 days) had a slightly greater effecton blood glucose levels, although the dose was much greater than that ofthe test compounds. Although SHR is not the best model to studyglycemia, the results obtained were similar to those previously obtainedin other animal model of diabetes, and suggest that the test compoundsdisclosed herein have a positive effect to regulate blood sugar levels.

Example 34

Toxicology study of compounds 4a (IFC-1102-48S), 5a (IFC-1102-57S) and7a (PGP-11048SR1) in a Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon-R strain) model.

The purpose of this study was to test and compare the potential toxiceffects of compounds 5a, 6a and 7a on the larva-to-adult viability anddevelopment time in a Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon-R) flies. Thesestudies have a relevant predictive role with the aim to anticipatepossible adverse toxicological effects that may happen duringpreclinical studies with animal, preferably mammals. In addition, thedata provided are highly quantitative.

The study procedures were checked and approved by the animal welfareguidelines of the European Union and the Institutional Committee forAnimal Research of the University of the Balearic Islands (Spain).

Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon-R) flies were obtained by the Universityof the Balearic Islands (Spain). The larvae had access to food adlibitum during treatment. The larvae were seeded on standard foodsupplemented with the appropriate dose of compounds tested. Eachcompound was tested at 1, 10, 100, 1000 and 2000 μg/ml dissolved instandard food.

Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon-R strain) flies were maintained byserial transfers in 150 ml bottles containing 30 ml of yeast medium(water, agar, salt, sugar, and inactive yeast), complemented with afungicide (methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate), antibacterial (propionic acid) andactive yeast powder on the surface, at 25° C. and 65% humidity withday-night cycles. Fly adults were transferred from the serial transfersystem to bottles with fresh food for 24 h. Adults 5 days old wereplaced on egg collecting devices (layers) containing a mixture of agar,water, acetic acid, and ethyl alcohol, with a drop of active yeast onit. Every 2 h., the layer glasses were changed, in this way, the eggs ofa glass have similar age, with a maximum difference of 2 h. among them.The glasses of the layers were kept at 25° C. for at least 22 h. inPetri dishes until larvae hatched. Fifty larvae were picked with alancet under a stereoscopic microscope and were seeded into 10×2 cmvials with 5 ml food. Vials were supplemented with 4a, 5a and 7a at 1,10 and 100 μg/ml. As positive control we used cupric acetate (toxic) at350 μg/ml.

The number of adult flies which emerged from each vial was counted dailyuntil the exhaustion of the culture. The parameters studied were thelarvae-to-adult viability (V) and development time.

Viability is expressed as V=NA/NL, where NL is the input number oflarvae (25 in our case) and NA the output number of adults emerging fromthese NL larvae. Development time was measured in days by the formulaDT=ΣNidi/ΣNi where Ni is the number of flies emerging on the day diafter the larvae were placed in the medium.

The data are expressed as the mean±SEM values from 3 independentexperiments involving triplicate vials at the number of flies indicated.

The V and DT of the control larvae were approximately of 85% and 12days, respectively. The results showed that larvae-to-adult viabilityand development time were not affected by 4a, 5a and 7a compounds at thetested concentrations (Tables 6, 7 and 8). These results indicate apotential safety profile for these 4a, 5a and 7a compounds, at the dosesassayed although, at least for compounds 5a and 7a, the safety profilemay reach doses up to 2000 μg/mL.

TABLE 6 Effect of compound 4a (IFC-1102-48S) in larva to adult viabilityand development time of Drosophila melanogaster. Compound 4aLarva-to-adult viability Larva-to adult (μg/ml) (% emerged adult flies)development days 0 85.46 ± 2.5 11.90 ± 0.2 1 86.19 ± 2.2 10.96 ± 0.2 10 79.96 ± 3.9 10.37 ± 0.6 100  85.91 ± 1.9 10.70 ± 0.1 Cupric acetate (350μg/ml) 0 not applicable

TABLE 7 Effect of compound 5a (IFC-1102-57S) in larva to adult viabilityand development time of Drosophila melanogaster. Compound 5aLarva-to-adult viability Larva-to adult (μg/ml) (% emerged adult flies)development days 0 85.46 ± 2.2 11.90 ± 0.2 1 86.91 ± 6.2 12.96 ± 0.6 10 93.48 ± 3.0 12.12 ± 0.2 100  80.74 ± 4.6 11.81 ± 0.5 Cupric acetate (350μg/ml) 0 not applicable

TABLE 8 Effect of compound 7a (PGP-11048SR1) in larva to adult viabilityand development time of Drosophila melanogaster. Compound 7aLarva-to-adult viability Larva-to adult (μg/ml) (% emerged adult flies)development days 0 85.46 ± 2.5 11.90 ± 0.2 1 92.23 ± 3.0 11.03 ± 0.2 10 92.32 ± 2.6 10.51 ± 1.6 100  99.51 ± 4.9 11.52 ± 0.4 Cupric acetate (350μg/ml) 0 not applicable

Example 35

Toxicology study of compounds 4a (IFC-1102-48S), 5a (IFC-1102-57S) and7a (PGP-11048SR1) in a mice model.

The experiments were conducted using female Swiss mice (20-30 g), housedunder a 12-h light-dark cycle, with controlled humidity (60-80%), andtemperature (22±1° C.). Food and water were freely available to themice.

Female mice (n=6) were orally (2000 mg/kg) administered with a singledose of 4a, 5a, and 7a for the observation of acute signs of toxicityuntil 14 days. After treatment, the animals were observed for the firsthour, followed by every hour up to 6 h, and subsequently daily for 14days. The observations comprised the behavior and manifestations of thetoxic symptoms, and were carried out according to the Guidelines of theOrganization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD, 2008).

All compounds were dissolved in sterile saline and were administered byoral gavage to mice based in the weight, for example 20 g received 20μL.

The data are expressed as mean±S.E.M. of experiments. Statisticalsignificance was determined through one-way analysis of variances(ANOVA), followed by either Newman-Keuls test. A p<0.05 was consideredstatistically significant. Graphs were drawn and statistical analysiswas carried out using GraphPad Prism version 5.00 for Windows (GraphPadSoftware, San Diego, Calif., USA).

The oral (2000 mg/kg) administration of 4a, 5a or 7a compounds in micedid not produce mortality or any behavioral disorders, after observationfor 14 days.

Example 36

Effect of Compounds 23b or 21a in an oral glucose tolerance testperformed in normoglycemic rats.

Male Wistar rats (200-300 g) were utilized provided by Mato Grosso doSul's Federal University's Biotherium. Until the experiments werecarried out, the animals have had free access to feed and water. Theroom temperature was kept at 22±2° C. with controlled humidity (60-80%)and the light/dark cycle was of 12 hours.

All procedures were submitted to the Animal Experimentation EthicsCommittee.

The glucose tolerance test was evaluated as described by Al-Awaki et al(6).

Rats were randomly divided into six groups of four animals that werecontrol group that received only a solution of saline, compound 23bgroup (10 mg/kg), compound 21a group (10 mg/kg) and metformin 300 mg/kggroup. Respective treatments were made orally and daily for five days.

On day 1, 3, and 5, different groups of rats were fasted overnight (atleast 12 h) prior to the test, but with given water ad libitum. The oralglucose tolerance test was carried out by administering of a glucosesolution (2 g/kg body weight) according to Al-Awadi et al (6). Glycemiawas determined in blood samples collected from the tail vein at −30minutes (just before the administration of the oral extract) time 0(prior to the glucose overload) and at 60 minutes after the glucoseoverload. Serum glucose concentrations were measured by the glucoseoxidase method (7) using commercial kit (Accuchek-performa (Roche))according to the manufacture's instructions.

The animals received Compounds 23b or 21a in dose of 10 mg/kg orally ina single dose per day, on the third day there was a significantreduction in glucose levels induced by compounds 23b and 21a (FIG. 7).Similarly, the oral treatment with metformin induces reduction ofglycemic levels, but a doses 30 times fold higher (FIG. 11). In thefifth day, only compound 23b and metformin (but at doses 30 times foldhigher) reduced the glucose levels in relation to control group.

Example 37

Effect of Compounds 21b, 21e, 23e, 23a, 23d or 26b in an oral glucosetolerance test performed in normoglycemic rats.

Male Wistar rats (200-300 g) were utilized provided by Mato Grosso doSul's Federal University's Biotherium. Until the experiments werecarried out, the animals have had free access to feed and water. Theroom temperature was kept at 22±2° C. with controlled humidity (60-80%)and the light/dark cycle was of 12 hours. All procedures were submittedto the Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee.

The glucose tolerance test was evaluated as described by Al-Awaki et al(6).

The compounds 21b, 23a and 23d were diluted firstly in 20 μl of ethanoland after in 980 μl de saline. Compounds 21e, 23e and 26b were dissolvedin sterile saline and were administered by oral gavage to rats based inthe weight, for example 200 g received 200 μL.

54 rats were randomly divided into seven groups of five-eight animalsthat were control group (n=8) that received only a solution of vehicle,compound 21b group (n=5) (10 mg/kg), compound 21e group (n=5) (10mg/kg), compound 23e group (n=5) (10 mg/kg), compound 23a group (n=5)(10 mg/kg), compound 23d group (n=5) (10 mg/kg), compound 26b group(n=5) (10 mg/kg) and metformin (n=6) 300 mg/kg group. Respectivetreatments were made orally and daily for five days.

On day 1, 3, and 5, different groups of rats were fasted overnight (atleast 12 h) prior to the test, but with given water ad libitum. The oralglucose tolerance test was carried out by administering of a glucosesolution (2 g/kg body weight) according to Al-Awadi et al (6). Glycemiawas determined in blood samples collected from the tail vein at −30minutes (just before the administration of the oral extract) time 0(prior to the glucose overload) and at 60 minutes after the glucoseoverload. Serum glucose concentrations were measured by the glucoseoxidase method (7) using commercial kit (Accuchek-performa (Roche))according to the manufactures's instructions.

The animals received compounds 21b, 21e, 23e, 23d or 26b in dose of 10mg/kg orally in a single dose per day. On the first day there was asignificant reduction in glucose levels induced by compounds 21e, 23eand 23a, and the positive control metformin, but at a doses 30 timesfold higher. On the third day there was a significant reduction inglucose levels induced by compounds 21e and 23e and the positive controlmetformin. In the fifth day, compounds 21b, 21e, 23e, 23d or 26b andmetformin (but at a doses 30 times fold higher) reduced the glucoselevels in relation to control group (FIG. 8).

REFERENCES

-   1.—Molina P, Fresneda P M, Garcia-Zafra S, Almendros P. Tetrahedron    Letters 1994, 35, 8851.-   2.—Moty A, Sakai S, Aimi N, Takayama H, Kitajima M, Shorbagi A,    Ahmed A N, Omar N M. European Journal Medicinal Chemistry 1997, 32,    1009.-   3.—Grundy S M. Drug therapy of the metabolic syndrome: minimizing    the emerging crisis in polypharmacy. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2006    5(4):295-309.-   4.—Crunkhorn (2011). Metabolic disease: Birch bark compound combats    metabolic syndrome. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery 10, 175.-   5.—Gross J L, Silveiro S P, Camargo J L, Reichelt A J, Azevedo M J.    Diabetes Melito: Diagnóstico, Classificação e Avaliação do Controle    Glic{hacek over (e)}nnico. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab 46(1) 2002.-   6.—Al-Awadi F M, Khattar M A, Gumaa K A: On the mechanism of the    hypoglycaemic effect of a plant extract. Diabetologia. 1985 July;    28(7):432-4.-   7.—Trinder P.: Determination of blood glucose using an    oxidase-peroxidase system with a non-carcinogenic chromogen. J Clin    Pathol. 1969 March; 22(2):158-61.

1-41. (canceled)
 42. A method of treating or reducing the symptomsrelated to a metabolic disease or disorder in a subject in need thereof,comprising administering to the subject in need of said treating orsymptom reducing a composition comprising a compound of formula I,

wherein, independently, R₁ can selected from: linear or cycled mono ordialkylamines; aminoalkylalcohols; or aminoalkylethers; R₂ can beselected from: benzene or heterocycle rings; R₃ can be selected from: H;a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight or branched alkyl of from 1to 5 carbons; or benzyl group; R₄ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbonradical selected from straight or branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons;hydroxy or alkoxy radicals; or halogen, or any pharmaceutically,cosmetically, or food grade acceptable salts, and combinations thereof,wherein the administration of said composition to the subject treats orreduces the symptoms related to the metabolic disease or disorder. 43.The method of claim 42, wherein the metabolic disease or disorder isselected from the group consisting of hypertension, obesity, overweight,hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and hyperglycemia.
 44. The method of claim 43,wherein said diabetes is type I diabetes or type II diabetes.
 45. Themethod of claim 43, wherein said hyperlipidemia is hypercholesterolemiaor hypertriglyceridemia.
 46. The method of claim 42, wherein,independently R₁ can be selected from: linear or cycled mono ordialkylamines; aminoalkylalcohols; or aminoalkylethers; R₂ is selectedfrom:

or a heterocycle ring which is

R₃ can be selected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straightor branched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; or benzyl group; R₄ can beselected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight orbranched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; hydroxy or alkoxy radicals; orhalogen. wherein, when R₁ is a linear mono or dialkylamine, it isselected from: NH—(CH₂)_(n)—NH₂ wherein the value of n is 1, 2, 3 or 4;NH—CH₂CH₂—N(CH₃)₂; or NH—N═CH-phenyl-R₇; and when R₁ is a cycled mono ordialkylamine, it is selected from:

and when R₁ is an aminoalkylalcohol, it is selected from HNCH₂CH₂OH; andwhen R₁ is an aminoalkylether group, it is selected from HNCH₂CH₂OCH₃;and R₅ can be selected from: H; alkoxy; halogen; hydroxy; orhalogen-alkyl; R₇ can be selected from: H or NO₂; and R₈ can be selectedfrom: H; hydroxy; or alkoxy; when R₁ is NH—CH₂CH₂—N(CH₃)₂, R₂ is

R₃, R₄, and R₈ are H, R₅ is OCH₃, and said compound of general formula Iis a hydrochloride salt; or any pharmaceutically, cosmetically, or foodgrade acceptable salts, and combinations thereof.
 47. The method ofclaim 46, wherein the compound is of formula III

wherein formula III is selected from (i) compound 4a, wherein R₁ isNH(CH₂)₂NH₂ and R₅ is p-OCH₃; or from (ii) formula 5a compound, whereinR₁ is NH(CH₂)₃NH₂ and R₅ 1 S p-OCH₃.
 48. The method of claim 46, whereinthe compound selected from the group consisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a,17b, 17c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f,26a, and 26b, as follows:

or any pharmaceutically, cosmetically, or food grade acceptable salts,and combinations thereof.
 49. The method of claim 48, wherein thecompound is selected from the group consisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a, 17b,17c, 26a, and 26b.
 50. The method of claim 48, wherein the compound isselected from the group consisting of: 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f,23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, and 23f.
 51. The method of claim 42, whereinthe composition is (i) a pharmaceutical composition comprising acompound of formula I, or any pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof,or combinations thereof; and optionally, at least an inert compound,carrier, or excipient; or, (ii) a cosmetic composition comprising acompound of formula I, or any cosmetically acceptable salts thereof, orcombinations thereof; and optionally, at least an inert compound,carrier, or excipient; or, (iii) a functional food additive compositioncomprising a compound of formula I, or any food grade acceptable saltsthereof, or combinations thereof; and optionally, at least an inertcompound, carrier, or excipient; or, (iv) a nutraceutic compositioncomprising a compound of formula I, or any food grade acceptable saltsthereof, or combinations thereof; and optionally, at least an inertcompound, carrier, or excipient; or, (v) a combination thereof.
 52. Themethod of claim 42, wherein the metabolic disease or disorder isdiabetes and the composition is a pharmaceutical or nutraceuticalcomposition comprising a compound of formula I, or any pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof, or combinations thereof, and optionally, atleast an inert compound, carrier, or excipient.
 53. The method of claim52, wherein the compound of formula I is selected from the groupconsisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a, 17b, 17c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f,23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f, 26a, and 26b.
 54. The method of claim 42,wherein the metabolic disease or disorder is obesity or overweight andthe composition is a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or nutraceuticalcomposition comprising a compound of formula I, or any pharmaceutically,cosmetically, or food grade acceptable salts thereof, or combinationsthereof, and optionally, at least an inert compound, carrier, orexcipient.
 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the compound of formula Iis selected from the group consisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a, 17b, 17c,21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f, 26a, and26b.
 56. The method of claim 42, wherein the metabolic disease ordisorder is hypertension and the composition is a pharmaceutical ornutraceutical composition comprising a compound of formula I, or anypharmaceutically, cosmetically, or food grade acceptable salts thereof,or combinations thereof, and optionally, at least an inert compound,carrier, or excipient.
 57. The method of claim 56, wherein compound offormula I is selected from the group consisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a,17b, 17c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f,26a, and 26b.
 58. The method of claim 42, wherein the metabolic diseaseor disorder is hyperlipidemia and the composition is a pharmaceutical ornutraceutical composition comprising a compound of formula I, or anypharmaceutically, cosmetically, or food grade acceptable salts thereof,or combinations thereof, and optionally, at least an inert compound,carrier, or excipient.
 59. The method of claim 58, wherein the compoundof formula I is selected from the group consisting of: 4a, 5a, 7a, 17a,17b, 17c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f,26a, and 26b.
 60. A pharmaceutical, cosmetic, functional food additive,or nutraceutical composition comprising at least a compound of formulaI,

wherein, independently, R₁ can selected from: linear or cycled mono ordialkylamines; aminoalkylalcohols; or aminoalkylethers; and R₁ whenbeing a cycled amine is

R₂ can be selected from: benzene or heterocycle rings; R₃ can beselected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight orbranched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; or benzyl group; R₄ can beselected from: H; a hydrocarbon radical selected from straight orbranched alkyl of from 1 to 5 carbons; hydroxy or alkoxy radicals; orhalogen, or any pharmaceutically, cosmetically, or food grade acceptablesalts thereof, or combinations thereof; and optionally, at least aninert compound, carrier, or excipient.
 61. The method of claim 52,wherein the compound of formula I is selected from the group consistingof: 4a, 5a, and 7a.